Civil Society: Participating in peace processes

Publication date:

Jan 2005

Source:

People building peace II

Peace processes which only include political and military players are potentially dangerous. Celia McKeon of Conciliation Resources explains why civil society's role is crucial in her chapter in 'People building peace II'.

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In this chapter of People building peace II, Celia McKeon of Conciliation Resources explains the importance of civil society actors being able to contribute to peace processes. Peacebuilding methods need to recognise that agreements between only political and military leaders are often not enough.

The text describes the four roles that civil society can play: advocating dialogue as an alternative to armed violence; facilitating dialogue between the parties; monitoring compliance and violations; and participating at the negotiating table. There are, however, also challenges to be faced, such as danger to themselves and marginalisation by others.